WASHINGTON—On February 4, 2019, U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued a withhold release order against tuna and tuna products from the Tunago No. 61 based on information obtained by CBP indicating tuna is harvested with the use of forced labor. The order is effective immediately as of the date of issuance.

The order will require detention at all U.S. ports of entry of tuna and any such merchandise manufactured wholly or in part by the Tunago No. 61. Importers of detained shipments are provided an opportunity to export their shipments or demonstrate that the merchandise was not produced with forced labor.

Under 19 U.S.C. § 1307 it is illegal to import into the United States goods made, in whole or in part, by forced labor, including convict labor, forced child labor, and indentured labor. CBP issues withhold release orders when information available reasonably indicates that imported merchandise is in violation of this statute.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.